Support to Fishermen Community in Kerala

Why in news

The Department of Fisheries, Government of India (DoF, GoI) has stated that it has not undertaken an independent assessment of the socio-economic conditions of traditional fishermen in Kerala, as 'Fisheries' is a State subject. However, the DoF, GoI, through its schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), is taking initiatives for the holistic development of fisheries, including in Kerala.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Economy, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. 'Fisheries' is a State subject in India.
2. The Department of Fisheries, Government of India (DoF, GoI) has not conducted an independent assessment of the socio-economic conditions of traditional fishermen in Kerala.
3. Fisheries within 12 nautical miles (NM) of territorial waters are governed by the Marine Fishing Regulation Act (MFRA) of coastal States.
4. Fishing beyond 12 NM is under the jurisdiction of the Government of India.
5. The Government of Kerala monitors the socio-economic conditions of fisherfolk through its own agencies.
6. The DoF, GoI implements the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for fisheries development.

Prelims pointers

• Fisheries is a State subject as per the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• The Marine Fishing Regulation Act (MFRA) governs fisheries within 12 nautical miles of territorial waters.
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a flagship scheme for fisheries development.

Mains practice question

Discuss the constitutional division of powers concerning fisheries in India and analyze the role of central government schemes in supporting the fishing community, using the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) as an example.

Static linkage

The Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution lists 'Fisheries' as a State subject, implying that the primary responsibility for its regulation and development lies with the State governments. However, the Union Government also plays a role through its policies and schemes, particularly concerning inter-State or national interests and the development of the sector as a whole.

Significance

The statement highlights the division of powers between the Union and State governments regarding fisheries, as per the Constitution. While States have direct control over fisheries within their territorial waters, the Union Government's role is crucial in providing financial and technical support through schemes like PMMSY, aiming for the overall development of the sector and the welfare of the fishing community across the country. The lack of an independent assessment by the Centre for Kerala's traditional fishermen raises questions about the extent of centralized data collection and its impact on targeted policy formulation.